An ultimate guide to Longstock Water Gardens, Farmshop and Nursery

Nestled in Hampshire’s Test Valley there is the Longstock Water Gardens, Farmshop and Nursery. They make up the Leckford Farm Estate that has been a favourite treasure of Waitrose and Partners since 1929. Spanning 2,800 acres, it stands as the sole UK retailer-owned farm. It is dedicated to providing fresh, local produce in the Longstock area for nine decades. This haven, valued by nature lovers and culinary adventurers alike, boasts three components. They are Longstock Park Farm Shop, Longstock Park Nursery, and the Longstock Park Water Gardens.

Longstock Park Farm Shop and Café: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Set on the outskirts of Longstock village, the Longstock Park Farm Shop and Café are housed in a charming oak-framed building. Here, it’s not just a shop; it’s a culinary wonderland.

To start your journey, step into the farm shop-a food lover’s paradise. The farm shop caters to foodies’ dreams with a delightful deli offering a range of succulent meats, fish, and cheeses. But it’s more than that. Additionally, with seasonal fruits and vegetables from the farm, artisanal chutneys, wines, vinegars, jams, and condiments, it’s your one-stop gourmet destination. Don’t leave without sampling freshly baked bread and irresistible cakes.

For a complete experience, just a few steps away, you’ll find the café—a cozy haven with both indoor and outdoor seating. Here, you can savor delectable snacks, mouthwatering sandwiches, hearty hot breakfasts, and a variety of coffees and beverages. It’s the ideal spot to recharge during your visit.

Longstock Park Nursery: A Horticultural Paradise

For green thumbs and lovers of all things botanical, Longstock Park Nursery is a must-visit. Hidden within the estate, it boasts a diverse selection of plants and stylish garden ware.

As you venture further, you’ll enter Longstock Park Nursery—a horticultural paradise. The nursery showcases an impressive range of plants, from herbaceous borders to perennial favorites, ornamental trees, fruit trees, soft fruits, specimen trees, conifers, and exquisite rose bushes and shrubs. Moreover, it’s also home to the national collection of Buddleja and Clematis, a stunning display within the tranquil walled garden, complete with an 80-meter herbaceous border.

Beyond the vast selection of plants, the nursery is stocked with everything you need for gardening. From essential tools and garden furniture to compost, peat, and various accessories, it’s a paradise for all gardening enthusiasts.

Longstock Park Water Gardens: A Serene Oasis

A short drive from the farm shop and nursery awaits the privately opened jewel within the estate—the Longstock Park Water Gardens. Opening on select days, including Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, these gardens offer a serene escape amidst natural beauty.

Longstock Park Water Gardens span over six acres, the water gardens host a remarkable plant collection, boasting 100 tree varieties and an astonishing 40 different water lily species. Moreover, the garden’s design celebrates each season, ensuring year-round beauty. With crystal-clear water, charming islands, and enchanting woodland valleys, it’s a serene oasis for all to enjoy.

Wildlife

While exploring, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife. From water birds to insects, and even beehives, you’ll encounter a vibrant ecosystem. Furthermore, butterflies and dragonflies grace the air, while ducks and swans glide gracefully across the lakes.

Numerous benches and a charming summer house invite you to sit, relax, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this water wonderland.

In conclusion, Leckford Farm Estate, with its Farm Shop, Nursery, and Water Gardens, promises a beautiful journey through nature, culinary delights, and horticultural wonders. Whether you seek fresh produce, a garden paradise, or a serene escape, this estate offers it all. Come and explore this hidden gem, where each visit guarantees an enjoyable adventure.

We were gifted a complimentary ticket to visit the Leckford Estate by Waitrose & Partners. The post is about our personal experience of the day.

We recently visited Hampshire, if you are planning a visit I highly recommend you read these posts:

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